ALDOT: 'Progress 65' "substantially complete"

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) - As the holiday traffic picks up, construction crews have packed up along Interstate 65 in Montgomery.

This week, the Alabama Department of Transportation gave the official word: 'Progress 65' is now 'substantially complete.'

"When you build a house, there's a punch list that we're working together with our contractor to address a few final issues, so we're winding that all down," said ALDOT's Tony Harris.

The construction took four years. Since 2006, crews have worked to widen and resurface the Alabama River Bridge and the stretch through Montgomery.

"It means the public doesn't have to deal with construction. They don't have to deal with lane closures. It is a smoother ride for them to be on the road at the holiday time," Harris said.

Travelers say they're impressed by the changes along the interstate.

"You kind of plan accordingly, whether you have any obstacles in your way, traffic or whatever, but now it's much better," said LaWanda Giles, a Montgomery native.

'Progress 65' isn't over quite yet.

Contractors still have to install new signs along the route. That means you'll still have to obey the lower posted speed limits until ALDOT approves the project.

Along with road improvements, ALDOT also upgraded their highway advisory radio system. Coverage now extends from Greenville to Pine Level along I-65 and from the 65/85 interchange to the Waugh exit on I-85.